SACCHAROMYCES BOULARDII Overview Information

Saccharomyces boulardii is a yeast, which is a type of fungus. Saccharomyces boulardii was previously identified as a unique species of yeast, but is now believed to be a strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (baker's yeast). Saccharomyces boulardii is used as medicine.

Saccharomyces boulardii is used for treating and preventing diarrhea, including infectious types such as rotaviral diarrhea in children, diarrhea caused by gastrointestinal (GI) take-over (overgrowth) by “bad” bacteria in adults, traveler's diarrhea, and diarrhea associated with tube feedings. It is also used to prevent and treat diarrhea caused by the use of antibiotics.

Acne. Some research suggests that taking a type of Saccharomyces boulardii (Perenterol, Cell Tech Phama) by mouth can improve the appearance of acne.

Diarrhea caused by the bacteria Clostridium difficile. Taking Saccharomyces boulardii by mouth along with the antibiotics vancomycin or metronidazole prevents the recurrence of diarrhea caused by the bacteria Clostridium difficile. However, it might not help treat first episodes of diarrhea caused by this type of bacteria.

Helicobacter pylori. Some evidence suggests that taking Saccharomyces boulardii reduces the side effects of treatment for ulcers caused by the bacteria Helicobacter pylori.

Amoeba infections (amebiasis). Early research shows that taking Saccharomyces boulardii by mouth along with antibiotics reduces diarrhea and stomach pain in people with amoeba infections.

Crohn's disease. Early research shows that Saccharomyces boulardii combined with mesalamine can help people with Crohn’s disease stay in remission longer. Remission is a period of time during which symptoms of disease are controlled. Taking Saccharomyces boulardii also seems to reduce the number of bowel movements in people with Crohn’s disease.

Cystic fibrosis. Early research shows that taking Saccharomyces boulardii by mouth does not seem to reduce yeast infections in the digestive tract of people with cystic fibrosis.

Ulcerative colitis. Early research shows that adding Saccharomyces boulardii to standard mesalamine therapy can reduce symptoms in people with mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Yeast infections.

High cholesterol.

Lyme disease.

Hives.

Fever blisters.

Canker sores.

Lactose intolerance.

Other conditions.

More evidence is needed to rate Saccharomyces boulardii for these uses.

SACCHAROMYCES BOULARDII Side Effects & Safety

Saccharomyces boulardii is LIKELY SAFE for most adults when taken by mouth for up to 15 months. It can cause gas in some people. Rarely, it might cause fungal infections that can spread through the bloodstream to the entire body (fungemia).

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Children. Saccharomyces boulardii is POSSIBLY SAFE for children when taken by mouth appropriately. However, diarrhea in children should be evaluated by a healthcare professional before using Saccharomyces boulardii.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking Saccharomyces boulardii if you are pregnant or breast feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Weakened immune system: There is some concern that critically ill people, people who have a weakened immune system, and people who are taking medicines that alter the immune system might have an increased risk for developing a yeast infection that spreads to the bloodstream and the rest of the body (fungemia) if they take Saccharomyces boulardii. Although Saccharomyces generally doesn’t cause disease, there have been numerous cases of fungemia following its use, primarily in people with a weakened immune system.

Yeast allergy: People with yeast allergy can be allergic to products containing Saccharomyces boulardii, and are best advised to avoid these products.

SACCHAROMYCES BOULARDII Interactions

Saccharomyces boulardii is a fungus. Medications for fungal infections help reduce fungus in and on the body. Taking Saccharomyces boulardii with medications for fungal infections can reduce the effectiveness of Saccaromyces boulardii.

Conditions of Use and Important Information: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

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